Providing a new model for urban living in Calgary, Canada, Grow is an innovative project by Modern Office of Design + Architecture (MODA) challenging the traditional notions of multi-residential buildings
Photography by MJay Photography and Ema Peter
Located in the heart of Bankview, Calgary, Grow is more than just another housing project – it’s a pioneering community hub. Brought to life by Canadian architecture practice Modern Office of Design + Architecture (MODA), the 20-unit, multi-residential development is redefining inner-city living by offering future proof housing, complete with a rooftop urban farm.
Designed to foster social connections across generations and backgrounds, Grow integrates urban horticulture at a scale not seen in Calgary before, providing residents with spaces to enjoy the garden, connect with others and grow together. The development features 450 sq ft studios, 600 sq ft apartments and spacious lofts, alongside more traditional two-storey townhomes.
Accommodating different family sizes at various stages of life, from retired couples to young families or single students living alone, Grow fosters a rich mix of demographics, creating opportunities for interaction and mutual support.
Photography by MJay Photography and Ema Peter
What truly sets the project apart, however, is its rooftop farm. A first for inner-city Calgary, the green space is not just a place to grow vegetables; it is here that residents gather and collaborate to maintain the space, giving the development a sense of community. With private gardens, vegetative roofs and even apiaries, the garden brings urban horticulture to the next level, while also providing a space to take a leisurely walk, get some fresh air or just enjoy the views.
But beyond these everyday activities, it also serves as a social hub where residents can participate in all facets of farming, from spring planting to the harvest. These activities are not just about growing food; they’re all about nurturing and growing relationships, building trust and creating a sense of purpose within a local community.
Challenging the traditional notions of multi-residential living, where social interaction is often limited to passing encounters in hallways, MODA developed a design that activates social spaces, ultimately putting people at the heart of architecture. While this is a concept that’s not entirely new, Grow does demonstrate that in a city like Calgary, developers can create urban spaces that are not only equitable and inclusive but also vibrant and resilient.
Photography by MJay Photography and Ema Peter
As cities around the world grapple with increasing social division and the health impacts of isolation, projects like Grow offer a promising solution to rethinking how we build our cities and homes.
By focusing on community-driven developments and fostering social connections, Grow is not just building homes but building a future where inner-city living is synonymous with inclusivity and community. Here, residents don’t just live side by side; they grow together.
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